Differential Diagnosis for Transaminitis and Submandibular Lymphadenopathy
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral hepatitis (e.g., hepatitis A, B, or C): This is a common cause of transaminitis, and the submandibular lymphadenopathy could be a reactive response to the viral infection.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Infectious mononucleosis (mono): Caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), this condition often presents with lymphadenopathy, including submandibular nodes, and can cause mild transaminitis.
- Toxoplasmosis: A parasitic infection that can cause lymphadenopathy and mild liver enzyme elevations.
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection: Similar to EBV, CMV can cause a mononucleosis-like syndrome with lymphadenopathy and transaminitis.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma (e.g., Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkin's) can present with lymphadenopathy and liver involvement, leading to transaminitis. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences.
- Tuberculosis (TB): TB can cause lymphadenopathy and liver enzyme abnormalities. Given its potential severity and the importance of early treatment, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic granulomatous disease that can affect the liver (causing transaminitis) and lymph nodes (causing lymphadenopathy), including the submandibular nodes.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Cat-scratch disease: Caused by Bartonella henselae, this infection can lead to lymphadenopathy, typically near the site of the cat scratch, and occasionally causes mild liver enzyme elevations.
- Brucellosis: A zoonotic infection that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including lymphadenopathy and liver dysfunction.
- Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease: A rare, self-limiting condition characterized by lymphadenopathy, often in the cervical region, and can be associated with mild liver enzyme abnormalities.